Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

479 articles

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prime a Pool Pump After Maintenance

Learn a safe, step-by-step way to prime a pool pump after maintenance, restore circulation, avoid common mistakes, and know when to call a pro.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Increase Pool Pump Pressure Safely

To increase pool pump pressure, focus on restoring normal water flow: clean baskets, service the pool filter, correct low water level, and check for blockages.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a DE Pool Filter Safely

To clean a DE pool filter, shut off the pump, relieve pressure, open the tank, rinse the DE filter grids, inspect for damage, and reassemble it per the manual.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Install a Pool Pump Safely: Above-Ground Pool Setup Guide

A safe pool pump installation means turning off power, placing the pump on a stable level base, connecting plumbing per the manual, and checking for leaks before startup.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Soften Pool Water Safely

The safest way to soften pool water is to confirm calcium hardness, remove scale, and reduce hard-water topping off or refill sources instead of guessing with chemicals.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean a Hayward Pool Filter Safely

To clean a Hayward pool filter, shut off the pump first, then service the filter by type—cartridge, sand, or DE—using your manual and pressure gauge.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Can You Fill a Pool With Well Water?

Yes, you can usually fill a pool with well water, but test it first and watch for iron, manganese, sediment, staining, and cloudiness before swimming.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Keep Leaves From Sinking to the Pool Floor

Stop leaves before they waterlog by skimming early, improving circulation, using a pool cover, and keeping skimmer baskets clear and equipment maintained.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Replace a Broken Skimmer Basket Handle Safely

A broken skimmer basket handle is usually a quick fix, but safety comes first: shut off the pump, avoid suction hazards, and choose the right replacement.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Causes Pool Water to Turn Dull After a Chemical Addition?

If pool water turns dull after a chemical addition, the cause is often a chemistry shift, fine particles, or weak filtration. Here’s how to check it safely.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Filtration & Circulation · Archive date: · 3 min read

When Should You Run Your Pool Pump Each Day?

Learn the best daily pool pump schedule by season, usage, and equipment type so you can keep water clear without wasting energy or stressing the system.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Where Does Water Go When a Pool Leaks?

When a pool leaks, the water usually moves into the surrounding soil, underground plumbing, or equipment areas. Careful observation can help narrow the source safely.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 23, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.